Humans 4 Equality - Equal Rights, Now!

The Great Nationwide Kiss-In

2009-07-30T12:06:00.001-07:00

There is a craze sweeping the nation, it's called K I S S I N G! Human beings kissing human beings no matter their gender, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation. We'll be doing it at the state capitol here in Phoenix http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=108132997978. There are also rumors of a kiss in somewhere in an air conditioned mall for those not up to facing the heat. Where will you be doing it?

Go to the Great Nationwide Kiss-In page or their Facebook page for more details:
http://jointheimpact.com/2009/07/the-great-nationwide-kiss-in/
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=124199360752&ref=ts

If you would like your pictures, words or video shown here, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find them here.

If you would like to make consistent contributions to this blog, please write to humans4equality@gmail.com with "human blogger" in the subject line.

Meet the Equality Walkers

2009-07-29T12:34:00.000-07:00

Meet the six young people who will walk 97 miles to represent the 97 years Arizona has been a state without full equality. From August 9th-15th these walkers will hit the pavement to speak to police, city managers, faith communities, elected officials and individuals in diverse districts. We invite community members to join us for a day or a segment on this journey. Look out for the rainbow umbrellas! www.righttomarry.org

Meg Sneed, 26, Co-Director

This summer we will cover 97 miles on foot, the number of years that Arizona has been a state without equal protections under the law for all citizens. Walking 97 miles may seem like a crazy feat, but the purpose is to bold, it is meant to be challenging. Walking 97 miles is nothing compared to a gay or lesbian person being told they can't see their partner in their dying moments at a hospital because they don't have full marriage rights.

When I do finally make that leap of faith with an amazing girl, I want it to be in Arizona. This is where I grew up; it is where I had my first kiss, my first job, and where my parents cried when they watched me embark on my first day of kindergarten. I am a Phoenician, I have fried an egg on the sidewalk, I have suffered many ice blocking injuries, and one day I will get married with the hot Arizona sun looking down on me. On that day I want to see my home state recognize and honor my commitment.

Meg was a 2008 and 2009 nominee for the Echo Readers Choice Awards Distinguished Service by a Woman. In 2009, Meg was selected as a Semi-Finalist for the United States Jaycees “Ten Outstanding Young Americans”, as one of the top 20 young leaders in the United States.

Melissa Halverson, 29, Co-Director

This summer’s 97 mile trek through Metropolitan Phoenix is both a symbol of love and solidarity. Love, for our Valley families, who are not equally protected, and whose children are in political and cultural jeopardy. The steps taken under the Arizona sun will be in solidarity and celebration of these families and their involvement in equal rights. This August I will stand up for the more than two hundred TBGL youth I see every Thursday at 1n10, and the 30,000 of you that came to Phoenix Pride.

Walking is necessary because I am equally responsible for the decisions that my State makes regarding my family. Although the battle for a narrowed discriminatory view of marriage won this last fall in our State, it is with great faith that the conversations we have this August will be impactful. My hope for Arizona, for the 200 youth I see weekly, and for the tens of thousands of TBGL families and their children, is vested in my whole hearted belief that people want these marriage values to change.

Jimmy Gruender, 35, Equality Walker

Jimmy has been with his lifetime partner for 16 years. He grew up living between Austin Texas, and Columbia Missouri, he moved to the Valley of the Sun in 2003. Soon after moving to Phoenix, Jimmy started to volunteer for different non-profits agencies in the Phoenix area. In January of 2004 he joined the board of directors of Phoenix Pride till 2009. In 2008 Jimmy joined the steering committee of H.E.R.O’s, a local grassroots activism group.

In 2009 Jimmy was nominated and won the prestigious Echo readers Choice Award, “Heroic Service for a Man”, and the John Bircumshaw Community Sprit Award from Phoenix Pride. When not volunteering, or doing activist work, Jimmy helps run a local night club in Central Phoenix.

Tracy Loafman, 28, Equality Walker

With the designation of “Straight Ally,” I was thrilled to encounter a positive term defining my role in the lives of my LGBT friends. It is my honor to unite with them, my responsibility to fight for them, and my dream to see them receive the rights I receive simply because I love a man, rather than another woman. On the brink of committing my life to one man, it has only become more evident to me the injustice of rejecting a person who wants to do the same, based entirely and exclusively on their sexual orientation.

Particularly after the devastating blow to my friends with Prop 102, I am excited to be a part of the second Right to Marry event. I walk to peacefully protest inequality, to support the LGBT community, and to encourage open minds so that one day we will witness a change so big that half the state of Arizona votes in favor of it. Finally, in my work with teenagers, I walk as an example of the value we can make as individuals when we are willing to go these lengths to positively impact the lives of others.

Luis Garcia, 30, Equality Walker

Luis Garcia is a longtime resident of the Phoenix community. He joined the military (USAF) after graduating from high school. Currently, Luis is a member of the Crystal Meth Task Force, American Legion, Phoenix 2010 Census Complete Count Committee, Encanto Village Planning Committee, Latino HIV/AIDS Day of Awareness and is a founding member of Human and Equal Rights Organizers.

As a community organizer Luis has worked to create all inclusive coalitions to secure equal rights in local communities. Luis is the recipient of the 2009 Equality Arizona Central Activist Award. Luis is walking to ensure that everyone is treated equally under state and federal law.

Hillary Pinney, 26, Equality Walker

An Arizona native, Hillary is committed to changing the political landscape of the state, insuring equality and inclusively for all people. Hillary has bachelor’s degrees in Women and Gender Studies and Journalism from Arizona State University, and is pursuing her Masters in Public Policy. A 2009 Center for Progressive Leadership Fellow, Hillary is working with several progressive organizations and candidates to achieve lasting and effective change.

Working on her first political campaign at the age of nine; Hillary has volunteered and lead campaigns and demonstrations for progressive issues in her community and at ASU. She is particularly passionate about LGBT issues, women, and sustainability. While at ASU she worked with many student organizations including, Women Beyond Borders, Voices for Planned Parenthood, the LGBTQ student coalition and served as the Director for the Women’s Coalition, a university funded organization, which seeks to improve the status of women at ASU and in the community. In 2006, Hillary was honored with the Commission on the Status of Women Award, for Outstanding Achievement and Contribution to the Status of Women at ASU. Hillary is currently directing the ASU production of the Vagina Monologues and is proud of the V-Day commitment to end violence around the world.

Hillary is passionate and dedicated to the LGBT community and ensuring civil and social equality for all. She is thrilled to be a part of the push for marriage equality. Many thanks to her fellow activists for their hard work and dedication.

To get involved visit: www.righttomarry.org

If you would like your pictures, words or video shown here, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find them here.

We apologize for our silence the last several months. Unfortunately health issues kept this blog from being all that it could be. More blog contributors would be a wonderful boon!

If you would like to make consistent contributions to this blog, please write to humans4equality@gmail.com with "human blogger" in the subject line.

Change we Need

2009-01-20T13:55:00.000-08:00

If you would like your pictures, words or video shown here, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find them here.

San Diego Marriage Equality March

2009-01-19T23:58:00.000-08:00

If you would like your pictures, words or video shown here, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find them here.

Montgomery, AL DOMA Protest

2009-01-18T00:01:00.000-08:00

If you would like your pictures, words or video shown here, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find them here.

Phoenix DOMA Protest

2009-01-17T00:13:00.000-08:00

http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=48731706839&h=EyYZ6&u=zWDCI

Thank you to Luis Garcia for his photos.

If you would like your photos, words, videos, etc. shared here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com

Chicago DOMA Protest January 2009

2009-01-16T13:02:00.000-08:00

Why in front of the Hyatt?

If you would like your pictures, words or video shown here, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find them here.

Sister Unity on Equal Rights

2009-01-15T23:49:00.000-08:00

If you would like your pictures, words or video shown here, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find them here.

That's so Gay

2009-01-14T23:46:00.000-08:00

http://www.marriageissogay.com/

If you would like your pictures, words or video shown here, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find them here.

Lez Get Real on DOMA Protest

2009-01-12T23:25:00.000-08:00

http://lezgetreal.com/

The Science of Homosexuality

If you would like your pictures, words or video shown here, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find them here.

Mother and Daughter

2009-01-10T13:31:00.000-08:00

Thank you to this mother and daughter I ran into at a Light up the Night vigil for participating in Humans 4 Equality.

If you would like your pictures, words or video shown here, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find them here.

Florida Light Up the Night

2009-01-09T13:34:00.000-08:00

If YOU would like to be featured on Humans 4 Equality, just send your words, pictures, or videos to humans4equality@blogspot.com

DOMA Protests

2009-01-08T08:37:00.000-08:00

Thursday 1/8
This will be a tough day for some of you, but just power through, we are almost there. Today is the day you reach out to friends who may not have seen the Protest Poster as your profile picture on your social networking site, because they are a little less connected than you.Email, text, or if necessary even call and actually speak to your friends to invite them out to the event. If they are unable to attend, ask them when would be a good time on Friday evening for you to meet up with them to have them add their signature to the open letter.

Friday 1/9
Tomorrow is a big day, so today is all about making sure everything is in place to make this event as successful as possible.Check your voice mail. Some of those people who only communicate by phone may have some questions for you. Check your email to see if anyone needs to know the location of the event. If they do, send them the Rally Site Map.
Meet up with the people who's signatures you have arranged to get for the open letter.
Change your social networking site status to a 'tease' about how excited you are to be part of the DOMA Protest Rally tomorrow at Wesley Bolin Plaza!

Finalize arrangements with your Ride Share partner(s) if you are participating in Ride Share.

Saturday 1/10TODAY IS THE DAY! Set your alarm so that you don't miss a minute of the fun.Dig out your extra comfy tennis shoes from the back of the closet, and fill up your water bottle. Bring plenty of water. Don't worry, there will be port-a-potties at the plaza.Gather up all of the signature sheets you have had filled out by your friends who are not able to attend.
Text your friends to let them know that you are leaving the house early so that you can be at Wesley Bolin Plaza by 11:30am to help with set up, and you will plan on seeing them there by 1:30 for the start of the event.

Call your Ride Share partner to let them know that you are on your way, and then get in your car in your comfortable shoes with your water and previously filled out signature sheets and make your way to the DOMA Protest Rally!
See, wasn't that easy? You are READY toooooo RALLY!

Thank you to John for the words and flyer.

If YOU would like to be featured on Humans 4 Equality, just send your words, pictures, or videos to humans4equality@blogspot.com

Sisters in San Diego, California

2009-01-07T09:16:00.000-08:00

Thank you Sister Nora Torios for sending in such fabulous pictures.

If YOU would like to be featured on Humans 4 Equality, just send your words, pictures, or videos to humans4equality@blogspot.com

An Open Letter to Barack Obama

2009-01-06T07:39:00.000-08:00

You can download your copy of the letter and the official signature pages at:
http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/page/Open+Letter+to+Barack+Obama?t=anon

If you would like to see more of yourselves and your friends on this blog please send your words, pictures, and videos to humans4equality@gmail.com and keep an eye on this blog as we strive to update it daily!

Aloha Equal Rights!

2009-01-05T06:04:00.000-08:00

Thank you to those lovely Hawaiians standing up for equal rights for the use of your pictures!

If you would like to see more of yourselves and your friends on this blog please send your words, pictures, and videos to humans4equality@gmail.com and keep an eye on this blog as we strive to update it daily!

Join the DOMA Protest Rally Jan 10th in a city near you!

2009-01-04T06:01:00.000-08:00

If you would like to see more of yourselves and your friends on this blog please send your words, pictures, and videos to humans4equality@gmail.com and keep an eye on this blog as we strive to update it daily!

Seperate Church and State

2009-01-03T13:51:00.000-08:00

Thank you Elisabeth Honey for the above photos from the November 15th rally in Phoenix, AZ!

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

Variation

2009-01-02T11:25:00.000-08:00

Thank you to those pictured for the use of your photos!

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

Equal Rights Vigil in Boise, Idaho

2009-01-01T19:25:00.000-08:00

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

Happy New Year, may 2009 bring Equal Rights for All

2008-12-31T10:25:00.000-08:00

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

Washington DC, Light up the Night

2008-12-30T08:19:00.000-08:00

Thank you Mark and all those from Join the Impact for your photos of the Washington, DC Light up the Night event! Please continue to send in your photos of future events in DC to humans4equality@gmail.com

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

Light up the Night Vegas

2008-12-29T10:12:00.000-08:00

Thank you to John and all those from jointheimpact.wetpaint.com who took the above pictures.

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

The last of the Hollywood LUTN Photos

2008-12-27T12:42:00.000-08:00

Brandon offered up each and every one of his photos for your perusal, so I tried to get them all up here. If I missed anyone in the flurry, I apologize.

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

More Hollywood Equal Rights Photos

2008-12-26T12:30:00.000-08:00

Men, women, gay, straight, people of all backgrounds, ages and ethnicities came out to Hollywood, California's Light Up the Night Event. As it should be.

Thank you for the photos Brandon!

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

Merry Christmas to All!

2008-12-25T09:49:00.000-08:00

Wishing you equal rights for the holidays!

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

Hollywood, CA

2008-12-24T00:22:00.000-08:00

With Permission from Brandon Chiang:

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

Light up the Night, California

2008-12-23T23:51:00.000-08:00

I received quite a few pictures from various places in California, so I thought it would be nice to see one from each of the Light up the Night vigils:Escondido

Santa Cruz

Pasadena

San Jose

Los Angeles

Fresno

Deleno

Fremont

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

Joy and Equal Rights to the World!

2008-12-22T09:14:00.000-08:00

After the Tempe, AZ Light up the Night Vigil I wrangled some of the stragglers (with the help of Michele thank you very much) over to my area where they agreed to participate in the humans4equality blog project.

7th Generation Mormon

A lovely volunteer in red

Hard workin' behind the scenes HERO!

If you would like to join HERO in planning upcoming actions, hear about what's coming up in the Phoenix community, etc. Come on down to Community Church of Hope at 6:30 tonight and every Monday for their town hall meeting. Tonight after HERO, head over to Red Devil on 32nd Street and McDowell for chicken, pizza or some really delicious wings and then next door to Icepics for BINGO before Christmas. Wear your Nightmare Before Christmas gear for the special treatment.

Thank you to all who posed and please, tell your friends!!!

If you would like your photos, videos or words to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and we will get them up asap! And look back daily to find your photos here.

Light Up the Night

2008-12-21T17:10:00.000-08:00

All around the country last night, people held a vigil for the rights that have been taken away from Californians, and denied to so many others.

We held just such a vigil (sponsered by HERO and Marriage Equality AZ) on the Tempe Town Lake Bridge.

At this time when so many are celebrating love and light, we felt a need to hold that space of love and light through song and candles, yet also acknowledge the pain. Sister Mischif of the Grand Canyon Sisters brought us the "Veil of Pain" and "Veil of Hope" in an effort to "release the pain and build hope for our community, and our world"

Please send in your stories from Light up the Night in your area! Any words, pictures or videos you would like to share advocating for equal rights would be most appreciated! Just send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and look back here daily to find the words of yourself and those you love.

Just Around the Corner

2008-12-20T09:57:00.000-08:00

Viva la differance! Keep on sending in your videos, words and pictures. Do not think just because someone else has, you don't have to, you never know when the picture you send will be the one that touches hearts and moves mountains. Send your thoughts on equal rights to humans4equality@gmail.com be they about Marriage Equality, Gender Equality, Employment, Adoption, Immigrant Rights, or something completely different.

And look back tomorrow, because you never know who or what you will see here next!

Migrant Rights

2008-12-19T07:01:00.000-08:00

December 18: International Migrants Day 2008
From: Hispanic Institute of Social Issues
Sent: Thu 12/18/08

Statement by René Plaetevoet, Director:

The 9th International Migrants Day coincides with the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Many UDHR provisions vividly relate to some of the threats – racism, xenophobia, labour and sexual exploitation, arbitrary detention and other injustices- and hopes – freedom of movement, right to work, to education, to live in dignity - experienced by millions of women, men and children and demonstrate that migrants rights are human rights.

This year also marks the 5th year of the entry into force of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families. The decades-long gap in the adoption of a treaty and other human rights tools for the protection of migrant workers is about to have particularly dire consequences. For scores of migrants, the world financial crisis will expose their existing vulnerability to stronger hardship and exploitation. It will also result in diminished remittances to those left behind in their home countries. Ironically, while migrants have often been the invisible architects of many striving economies and least benefited from financial investment and related wealth generating products, they will be amongst the worst hit.

It is thus essential that civil society actively monitors respect for the Convention, engages with the UN Committee on Migrant Workers and renews the call for universal ratification. But, the fact that major countries of destination did not ratify this convention does not mean that they should not / and cannot be held accountable. Other international instruments do apply to migrant workers and it is up to migrants’ organisations, civil society and the international community to make use of them. (See December 18’s newest publication, “the Samizdat”)

More than ever, International Migration Day (IMD) is an occasion for international solidarity and for making migrants voices heard. December 18 gives a platform to these testimonies via Radio 1812, a global event that brings together a wide range of radio stations that broadcast special programmes on the occasion of IMD. This unique radio marathon enables migrants’ voices to be heard, not only on community-based radio stations but also on large public broadcasts and via our dedicated website. More than 100 radio stations from over 35 countries will participate in this year’s event.

December 18 believes that it is wrong to deal with migration as a security issue only. Many governments want to stay out of the limelight and orchestrate policy discussions, for instance within the Global Forum on Migration and Development conveyed outside of the United Nations thereby excluding civil society from the process. Civil society, including NGOs and migrant organisations often are the sole actors delivering assistance and advice to migrants in countries of origin, transit and arrival. Their unique experience would greatly enrich analyses and solutions oriented discussions respectful of a human rights framework.

However, the UDHR and other human rights norms and standards evolved since then and have slowly been integrated in some international, regional and national government responses to migration, including, albeit timidly, in some migration management initiatives. More than ever, civil society, migrant and human rights organizations will need to remind governments of their commitments and highlight the relevance of the Preamble of the UDHR which declares that:

“[…] recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world,

[…] disregard and contempt for human rights have resulted in barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind, and the advent of a world in which human beings shall enjoy freedom of speech and belief and freedom from fear and want has been proclaimed as the highest aspiration of the common people,

[…] it is essential, if man is not to be compelled to have recourse, as a last resort, to rebellion against tyranny and oppression, that human rights should be protected by the rule of law,

[…] it is essential to promote the development of friendly relations between nations.”

December continues to work for the respect of the human dignity and the fundamental human rights of all migrant workers and their families.

Humans4Equality believes if we ignore our rights, they will go away. Do not be ignored! Send your words, picture or video to humans4equality@gmail.com TODAY! And look back tomorrow to find yourself on our page

Domestic Partnerships Recognized in Phoenix, AZ

2008-12-18T14:55:00.000-08:00

It's a baby step, but one that deserves great applause. At a time when many in Arizona are feeling hurt by the passing of Prop 102, there is light.

Yesterday the Phoenix City Council voted to adopt an ordinance to recognize domestic partnerships by a vote a 6 to 0. The council approved the creation of the domestic partnership registry for Phoenix residents who are in committed relationships, be they gay, straight or other the right to visit each other in the hospital.

"By recognizing domestic partnerships, the Phoenix City Council removed some of the barriers that have prevented unmarried couples, gay or straight, from being able to take care of each other," said Barbara McCullough-Jones, Executive Director of Equality Arizona. "It's hard to imagine what it would be like to be told that you couldn't visit your loved one in the hospital or hold your partner's hand before they went into surgery. Unfortunately, that story is all too common for gay and lesbian couples. We are thankful that the members of the Phoenix City Council have taken this important step to help unmarried couples in committed relationships take care of each other."

1 down, 1137 rights and protections to be gained... but every step in the direction of equal rights should be celebrated! Phoenix City Council, we tip our hat to you.

If you would like your words, pictures, videos, etc. to appear here, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com and look back daily for updates!

Just don't do anything to get thrown in jail!

2008-12-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

When I speak with people about the inhumane treatment of prisoners, and especially LGBT prisoners, the common response is "Just don't do anything to get thrown in jail." I used to believe this myself, but over time have come to realize that ignores several facts. Here are a few things I never knew before:

It is not unusual when an LGBT person is attacked for them to be arrested. Let me reword that for you: Person A attacks Person B, yet Person B is thrown in jail. Also occasionally known to occur, is that Person A attacks Person B and both Person A and B are thrown in jail.

Not everyone in jail is guilty. This is not only because we are innocent until proven guilty in this country, but also because while they are investigating a crime, people are sometimes placed in jail under SUSPICION and later released. Too few people realize or recognize this.

Although I respect and am grateful for those men and women in blue who are hard working, honest people of integrity, and while there are wonderful law enforcement officers who are open minded, loving, and/or respectful towards people of all genders, the fact is there is transphobia and homophobia running rampant in this country and that does sometimes include police officers.

Thank you Lori for sending in this video which highlights some very important changes needed in the prison system. And one more reason that we need EQUAL RIGHTS and protections under the law for ALL.

Thanks to Mila and Jayna of Trans-Ponder.com for the use of their video!

If you would like to stand up for Equal Rights for ALL, send your video, picture, or words to Humans4Equality@gmail.com and check back daily to find your input here.

St Louis - the need to DO SOMETHING

2008-12-16T11:18:00.001-08:00

The St. Louis greater LGBT community and it's straight alliance gathered today to participate in the nationwide protest against HATE. While it was 35 degree's out, it was truly heart warming (yes I was emotional) to see the speakers present a unified voice.

Speakers included St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay, leaders of the ACLU, Growing American Youth, the Latino community, Black Pride, The Gateway Sisters of Indulgence, the bear community and the Imperial Court and others. The police estimated 1000 people present. It was an electrifying moment.

During the nationwide moment of silence I was struck by a mixture of strong emotions. Comforted by the knowledge that I stood with 1000 people and an estimated 1 million family members across the USA, yet saddened that we, in the year 2008, still have to struggle for BASIC HUMAN RIGHTS.

We as one voice recognized the need to DO SOMETHING and to be satisfied with no less than victory.

Tonight as the Gateway Sisters manifest, those of us who stood today to make a statement feel a renewed calling to stand for what is right, to educate those who are ignorant and above all, return love when faced with hate.

Guard Brian

We thank Guard Brian, of the Gateway Sisters, for sending in his picture and words.

If you'd like to see your pictures, words or video here send them to humans4equality@gmail.com because we want to hear from people all over the world about how they feel about Equal Rights!

Equali T

2008-12-15T12:25:00.000-08:00

Ann O. Nymous:

A young man was walking down the halls of the college dormitory where he lives and works, when anti transgender slurs were screamed out at him. He reported the abuse to his boss and was told to ignore it.

Yesterday he told me, "I am called "Faggot" every day and have gotten used to it, but when they yelled these things which I will not repeat, I was even more hurt." Not because yelling faggot isn't bad, but because they obviously had gone out of their way to specifically target him as he is newly open about transitioning F to M. When he went to his boss to report the verbal attack, he was told it was nothing and to ignore it. When he pointed out that similar slurs against an African American coworker had resulted in the offender being written up and provided with education on why such slurs are wrong, he was told this isn't the same thing, and nothing would be done. His university does have a gender nondiscrimination clause in place which includes protections for gender identity, and I am working with him to help create a safer space for him to live and work through educating his employer and coworkers, but how sad that even in a place which he is supposed to be safe to live, work, and learn he is not protected when he reports the verbal assault.

It is sad also that he would ever grow used to being called "Faggot" whether he identifies as gay or not, no one should have to become numb to either homophobia or transphobia. I can remember the same slur being flung at me when I was a child, sometimes followed by things actually being thrown at me as I walked down the halls at school. I hope we can start to provide safer educational environments for our youth.

PLEASE send in your story, photos, videos, etc. about what rights and protections are needed and why we need equal rights for all to humans4equality@gmail.com and then check back daily, or subscribe to see yourself and your friends photos, videos and stories right here at humans4equality.blogspot.com!

Unequal Rights, Equal Responsibilities

2008-12-14T21:47:00.000-08:00

Carlie ponders the question, "If I am not given the same rights as every other citizen, why am I expected to fulfill the same responsibilities?"

If you have something you'd like to say about equal rights, send it to humans4equality@gmail.com and check back daily as we share the equal rights words, pictures, and videos of any and all humans with you. Maybe you will find yourself here soon!

The Next National Demonstration for Equal Rights

2008-12-13T18:43:00.000-08:00

WHAT IS LIGHT UP THE NIGHT FOR EQUALITY?
On December 20th, we ask that you join us again for a nation-wide demonstration that will make an impact on the private sector. Candlelight vigils will be held at commercial centers in cities across the country in vigil for the rights of 18,000 same-sex couples who married and look forward to the day when those rights are available again - for EVERYONE. <>

HOW DOES IT WORK? Please take to your local commercial district -- be it a shopping mall, outdoor financial center, you name it. Check your city page for the time and location of your event. This will be a peaceful demonstration in the spirit of the holidays. Dress alike. Wear the same t-shirts or signs pinned to your coats. You can make or buy a "2nd Class Citizen" t-shirt, but the message is optional. Learn more about why we suggest "2nd Class Citizen." This will be the culmination of our National Food Drive for Equality

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Please take to your local commercial district -- be it a shopping mall, outdoor financial center, you name it. Check your city page for the time and location of your event.
This will be a peaceful demonstration in the spirit of the holidays.
Dress alike. Wear the same t-shirts or signs pinned to your coats. You can make or buy a "2nd Class Citizen" t-shirt, but the message is optional. Learn more about why we suggest "2nd Class Citizen."
This will be the culmination of our National Food Drive for Equality

WHAT WILL WE BE DOING?

Hosting peaceful candlelight vigils
We will stay silent unless asked a question, we will not yell, instigate, or bear signs. Instead, we will let our shirts do the talking and our candles pay our respects. Bring candles (battery powered if you'll be huddling inside).
Singing and/or silence encouraged...chanting is not....keep it peaceful and in the holiday spirit.

From Bill G

2008-12-12T14:58:00.001-08:00

Our thanks to Bill G. for these photos!
If you have photos, videos or just something to say in support of equal rights, be they about employment, marriage, adoption, or something completely different, send them to humans4equality@gmail.com

Random Humanity

2008-12-11T10:08:00.001-08:00

This entry is simply random people whose pictures have been sent in to humans4equality@gmail.com to speak out for equal rights in whatever way they choose.

If you would like to have your words, pictures, or videos on this blog, please add your 2 cents or more, by sending whatever you'd like to express in support of equal rights be it about adoption, job security, marriage equality, or something completely different, please send them in to humans4equality@gmail.com and keep checking back here to see them online!

Day without a Gay

2008-12-10T17:11:00.001-08:00

Today people all over the nation called in gay. Some of them went out on street corners and spoke out for equality like these folks over by Glendale Community College:

If you participated in Day without a Gay rallies, please send your pictures and videos to humans4equality@gmail.com along with the location, and any other words you'd like included.

Be....All that you can be!

2008-12-09T19:45:00.000-08:00

Sister Edith sent in these words and the following picture of her husband with Sister Nova Gyna and Sister Charity Case. FABULOUS!

"Are there differences between us? Hell yes. That is what makes us
each so special. Especially when you highlight, take pride in, and
love yourself for who/what you are."

"We are each special in our own way.

Love youself -everything starts from there!"

>:-) E

Sister Edith Moorecock
SPI, The Abbey of St. Joan
Seattle, Washington USA
www.TheAbbey.org

www.geocities.com/klmcc1

"Each time someone stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot
of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny
ripple of hope."

Robert F. Kennedy

Just like you?

2008-12-08T09:22:00.000-08:00

Sometimes we look at each other and all we see is differences. But the reality is, we have more in common than one might think.

No matter what clothes you put on, if you wear makeup or not, we all came into this world naked, made up of mostly water, and when we leave it we all turn into dust.

You may be black, white, yellow, brown, purple or other but if you send your picture or video about equal rights to humans4equality@gmail.com they will be posted here for all the world to see. Share your thoughts today

LGBT and Ally Town Hall Meetings

2008-12-07T16:25:00.000-08:00

On December 6th there was a town hall meeting held at Arizona State University, for LGBT and Allies in Arizona. When I arrived, there was a panel of various people in Arizona representing a range of organizations working towards equal rights in this state, and in the country.

There were then group breakout sessions on various topics. I wish I could have attended them all. I did however attend a brainstorming session lead by Norma and Mary from the ACLU, on how to engage our allies, and later one on Transgender Inclusion, where we discussed current issues that affect the transgender portion of the community, and how groups can better include the T in community events.

Afterwards people split off into various groups for dinner and discourse, which was followed by quite a few of us meeting up at Cash Inn Country to celebrate a community member's birthday, and to donate canned goods to the Grand Canyon Sisters for The Joshua Tree Feeding Program, where I snapped this picture of Novice Sister Inga and her words about equal rights.

How are you working in your city to reach a time of equal rights for all? Please send in information, pictures, videos, and anything you wish to share about equal rights to humans4equality@gmail.com and keep an eye out for them here.

Come back tomorrow for more pictures, words and videos .

Marriage Equality

2008-12-06T07:42:00.000-08:00

1 + 1 = over 1100 rights you get when you are married

There are so many rights and protections the laws of the world are denying people these days, and one of those is marriage equality. I met these two lovely gentleman at the Community Church of Hope. They have started a local branch of Marriage Equality USA in Arizona. I am honored to know them. You can join with them by going to their facebook page.

So much to say, so little hand space

2008-12-05T10:38:00.000-08:00

Love, Live, Be Free

Chrystopher - Equal at Birth

Eye Respect U.

Equal Rights Now Until.... WAIT... Eternity

Sister Honey - Listen to the Hand

Please send in your own pictures and videos in support of equal rights to humans4equality@gmail.com and tell a friend to visit humans4equality.blogspot.com so they too can show their support of equal rights for all!

Check back tomorrow for even more pictures or videos.

First Video for the Humans4Equality Video Challenge

2008-12-04T13:25:00.000-08:00

Check back tomorrow for even more pictures or videos, and please send in your own pictures and videos in support of equal rights to humans4equality@gmail.com

World AIDS Day

2008-12-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

Monday December 1st was World AIDS Day where we honor those who have died due to AIDS related illness, and spread hope for a better future. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence participated in a myriad of events, but I caught up with some of the Grand Canyon Sisters and their friends at Red Ribbon BINGO where Sister Odora held a beautiful ceremony, HIV and Syphilis tests were provided, and of course many rounds of Sisterly BINGO were played. What better place to find humans for equal rights!

Sisters Ora Lee and Atopa work the BINGO table where World AIDS Day Candles burn

A new BINGO friend

A BINGO Princess and Sister 3M

Novice V'gina Dentata standing up for Equality

Check back tomorrow for even more pictures and videos, and please remember to send in your own pictures and videos to humans4equality@gmail.com

We're Baaaaack!

2008-12-02T21:04:00.000-08:00

This human spent thanksgiving in southern California with family, but on my return I met up with quite a few interesting people with great things to say about equal rights so check back here tomorrow for an update! And in the mean time, watch this video to learn how you can take the humans4equality you tube video challenge:

So no matter who you are or what your background, get out those cell phones, cameras, and video recorders and send whatever you'd like to say in support of equal rights to humans4equality@gmail.com

Use your CELL phone cameras!

2008-11-26T12:53:00.000-08:00

This is so easy! Anyone with a cell phone camera can take a picture of themselves and send it to humans4equality@gmail.com right now. So start clicking those cell phones! Here are some examples:

More Humans for Equality

2008-11-25T09:36:00.000-08:00

Keep on sending in those human pictures to humans4equality@gmail.com!

The Human Element

2008-11-24T09:14:00.000-08:00

When we look at our fellow humans so often we see right through them. And every once in a while there is an interaction that really touches us indelibly and leaves an impression. But through all our differences, there is a human element effecting and shaping the world around us. Stop and take a moment to really look at the people you encounter today, and find what you have in common. Because it's the human element that really matters. Today's pictures were taken at Glendale Community College on November 22nd.

If you would like to be represented on humans4equality.blogspot.com just send in your human picture/s to humans4equality@gmail.com

Transgender Day of Remembrance

2008-11-23T20:42:00.000-08:00

Thank you to the ASU Students for putting on such a beautiful day of remembrance, and for their participation in the Humans4Equality project. 31 humans whose names we know were killed this year for being transgender, and others go unknown, but all are remembered. www.transgenderdor.org

Humans at the Larame Project

2008-11-22T03:45:00.000-08:00

November 22nd hundreds gathered at Glendale Community College's performance arts center to support the college for putting on the Larame Project. GCC decided to perform the Larame Project in honor of the 10 year anniversary of the death of Matthew Shephard. They were told that a church preaching hate of gays would show up to protest the event, the same church whose pastor is represented in the play, the Larame Project. Instead, all you could see outside GCC's Performing Arts Center were hundreds of students, H.E.R.O.s and other supporters. Sometimes standing silently in memory of matthew shephard and the very first angel action which took place at his funeral...sometimes singing Amazing Grace or some other hymnal, these people shared the love. Thank you to the students and faculty of GCC for standing firm and holding their play despite the threat of Fred Phelps attendance. And thank you to those two lovely ladies in the back working lights and sound who so often go unnoticed.

These 2 Humans were working lights and sound at the Larame Project

Transarchist Pride Don't forge the Transgender Day of Remembrance
Check out www.transgenderdor.org to find one near you.

We love those H.E.R.O.s!

Milo from 1 Voice, a local JC's LGBT student group

Phoenicians Nov 20, 2008

2008-11-21T07:37:00.000-08:00

No matter who you are, or what you look like

Kindel and Bear

Bonnie

Humans4Equality are all over the world. If you would like to show your wish for equal rights for all, send your picture to humans4equality@gmail.com

I'm holdin out for the HEROs!

2008-11-20T08:48:00.000-08:00

Community Church of Hope, HERO planning meeting - Nov 19, 2008

David - Phoenix Clarendon - Nov 19, 2008

Melissa (HERO Communications Liason) - Nov 19, 2008

Alan - Phoenix, Clarendon - Nov 11,

HERO in the front row - Nov 19, 2008

For more information go to be-a-hero.us

National Impact, National Humans for Equal Rights

2008-11-19T09:03:00.000-08:00

Check out the National Day of Impact Numbers list on wetpaint! With all those people out, some of you must have gotten your picture taken holding a sign up about equal rights. If so, send them in to humans4equality@gmail.com and we'll add them to the blog.

Just as you'll see below, in these pictures of various people, from a diverse set of backgrounds, all humans who believe equal rights are for all.

Keep on keeping on people. Visit jointheimpact.com to find out how you can get involved in your city. Or if you're in Arizona go to be-a-hero.us Because we are all Human and Equal Rights Organizers when it gets down to it!

Thank you Sister Bearie, my sentiments exactly!

No matter what you look like, who you are, or who you love, all humans should have equal rights and representation under the law. Preach it Sister!

We need more humans for equality

2008-11-18T11:55:00.000-08:00

No matter your background, age, gender, orientation, race, or religion, the human race needs you to stand up for equal rights and protections for all people. This is not a black and white issue, it's a human rights issue. Stand with us (or sit with us) and send in your human picture. Just take a photo of yourself, or have a friend loved one take it for your, and send it to humans4equality@gmail.com. Be the change you want to see in the world. Show your love and support the way you want to be shown love and support.

Here are some photos of humans of all stripes from the Equal Rights Rally h8 102 protest in Phoenix, AZ on Saturday Nov 15th. Please send in your photos from various Equal Rights rallies along with your human4equality photo and we'll be happy to post them here.

All Humans - We the People includes Gays

Equal Rights are not Special Rights

Civil Rights NOW

Mike and his partner Erik have been together 16 years

Erik - Love is NEVER Wrong - Nov 15, 2008

Be a H.E.R.O.

2008-11-17T23:37:00.000-08:00

Be a H.E.R.O. (Human and Equal Rights Organizer) met tonight to discuss what is happening in Arizona, and specifically Phoenix. Over 200 H.E.R.O.s attended, and we were informed the final count for Saturday's Phoenix rally and protest was over 5,000 strong.

Plans were made, ideas, discussed, passion shared, and volunteers signed up for some specific tasks for the near future, including making angels wings to support the Larame Project over at Glendale Community College. If you are in Arizona and want to learn more, go to www.be-a-hero.us, and if you are in Phoenix, stop by the Community Church of Hope, 4121 N. 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013 at 6:30 PM on any Monday or Wednesday to be the change you want to see in the world.

Several people from the Be A HERO meeting allowed Sister Mischif (see photo on left) to take their picture, and we now share their images here. Thank you to each and every person who has participated in this project, showing the world the diversity of the U.S. population. Please keep sending in your human pictures!

If you sent in a human picture of your own and haven't seen it here, keep checking back. We still have more photos from livejournal members, people at the various Join the Impact Rallies, and more from Be A HERO. Keep on sending in your photos to humans4equality@gmail.com and I will keep adding more photos to the blog each day!

How Humans 4 Equality Started

2008-11-17T07:59:00.001-08:00

As I move the first few posts over to this new blog, I thought I would take a moment to speak to how and why this blog started. Originally, Sean-Michael was working on a project called Gender DiverCity, a photographic attempt on his part to explore gender ...the way we see it internally, vs how it is perceived externally, and how we express gender in today's society. Hence http://genderdivercity.blogspot.com was born.

After 3 propositions in 3 different states passed banning gay marriage, and one state had an anti-gay adoption prop pass, not to mention the many failed attempts to gain job protections or educational protections for transgender people right here in AZ and all over the US... it became clear that not only does our society still not get that gender should not be a reason not to have equal rights, but homophobia is alive and well and even being preached from the pulpits in some places.

Just because one is in love with someone of the same gender... or just because one is born transgender, does not mean one should not receive medical care, education, or jobs, and just because one is in love with someone of the same gender does not mean one should not be able to visit loved ones in the hospital, or be buried next to one's spouse because it just isn't legally recognized. I know, it sounds so old school doesn't it? and yet veterans with same sex partners go through that now! We want equal rights, not special rights.

And so the blog entry titled All Humans are Created began the Humans 4 Equality thread. http://genderdivercity.blogspot.com/2008/11/all-humans-are-created-equal.html began it all, but it has become clear that there needs to be a Humans4Equality blogspot all it's own.

Now it has become clear that today people are needing to talk about gender identity and presentation, but also they are needing to talk about sexuality. Proclaiming your truth about sexual orientation? That's SO 80's! For you who are too young to remember, the chant of the 80's was "We're here, we're queer, get used to it." I know, I know, but it's back. We're here, we're queer, and apparently some people STILL haven't gotten used to it. Only now the common refrain is "A People, United, Can NEVER be divided!"

So stand with us now and send in your picture alone, with friends, with loved ones, or pets... to humans4equality@gmail.com and then visit humans4equality.blogspot.com and play your own version of where's waldo, watching for yourself and people you know on the blog. Gender DiverCity will continue along with the humans4equality theme, but now there is an easier URL to remember, and to share with your friends: http://humans4equality.blogspot.com bookmark it, or subscribe to the feed, and pass it along.

And for future rally info in your city, go to www.jointheimpact.com and tell a friend, tell 5 friends, tell ALL your friends, just spread the word! If you have seen yourself on the blog, and would like to have your name and any other details added, please send them along with the title of the blog entry to humans4equality@gmail.com.

If you have not seen you picture here but you have sent it in to humans4equality@gmail.com, or had it taken at a phoenix event by a representative of Humans 4 Equality, keep on watching this blog, because it will show up in a future post!

Joining the Impact

2008-11-16T10:02:00.000-08:00

Today Humans for Equality took to the streets of Phoenix, and people took a ton of pictures, some of which are here today. I will add more tomorrow, so if you're looking for a picture that you, or someone else took at the Phoenix Stop the h8/Spread Love rally, then keep on looking back daily.

Protect this Family - Julie Purdy and Becky Garcia with their son - Phoenix, AZ

If you have pictures of Humans for Equality from one of the national Stop the H8 rallies, another Equal Rights Rally, or if you just want to send in a picture of yourself at home like the one I took of myself shown here to the right, or if you have some other creative idea of how to express the desire for all Humans to have Equal Rights, please send them to Humans4Equality@gmail.com along with your first name, and where you're from, or anything else you want to share with the world.

Unfortunately I don't know all the names of all the lovely people at yesterday's rally, but I thank them for the use of their photos and for coming out to stand up for Equal Rights. This whole things may have started with marriage, but it is about so much more.

Luis from Echo Magazine - 11, 15, 2008 - Phoenix, AZ

Sister Felicity - 11, 15, 2008 - Phoenix, AZ

PFLAG Parents - 11, 15, 2008 - Phoenix, AZ

Rev. Michael and a Rally Worker - 11, 15, 2008 - Phoenix, AZ

The people of our nation are coming together and standing up to say that they believe that "A person's a person no matter how small" and all humans deserve equal rights and protections under the law. And if you'd like to join in on future national rallies, go to jointheimpact.com for more details.

If you saw your photo here today without your name, and you would like your name mentioned, or to add some words of your own, please send them to humans4equality@gmail.com with the subject line "Joining the Impact" and I will add your name and/or 2 cents into the mix.

Thank you to Sister Mischif for so many fabulous human pictures!

Coming Together in Non-violent Protest

2008-11-16T09:45:00.000-08:00

Today people (and pets) from all around the nation are coming together as part of a non-violent rally for equal rights. Here in Phoenix, AZ the Stop the H8 rally is at the Cesar Chavez Memorial at 11:30 AM. That's 200 W. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ. You can learn more and find your own location at jointheimpact.com

Marriage equality is only one piece of the picture. At this time in our nation there is a lack of equality for many be it lack protections from loss of job, home, child or other. There is especially a lack of understanding and legal protection for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queeer, Intersexed. So stand up, be you LGBTQI or one of our many straight allies, stand together, and keep on sending your pics and videos to humans4equality@gmail.com no matter where you're from, just like these students did so that you too can eventually end up on this here blog ;)

Quinlan Jeremiah - November 14, 2008 - Baker City, Oregon, USA

Thank you Cera and Quinlan, I'm feelin' the love and support!

Humans for Equality

2008-11-14T09:26:00.000-08:00

Let us come together, every one of every nationality, religion, or other background and stand strong as human beings united for equal rights. Come to the table, I'm saving a seat for you!

Send your picture or video and any information which you would like posted to humans4equality@gmail.com (and in case your browser couldn't view my email address, it's humans4equality at gmail dot com)

Bill - Phoenix, AZ

Samantha - Phoenix, AZ

Diana - Phoenix, AZ

Sean-Michael - Phoenix, AZ (Laveen)

Michele - Scottsdale, AZ

Billie - Scottsdale, AZ

Toni - Phoenix, AZ

All my love, respect and gratitude goes out to these 6 individuals who shared their photos here today. May your passion for equal human rights spread like wildfire!